Information About Cat Spaying

Pet overpopulation is a major problem in the United States. It is estimated that there may be up to 70 million stray cats. With each female cat being able to have two litters a year with 4 to 6 kittens per litter, the number of homeless cats can rise quickly. Spaying, also known as an ovariohysterectomy, is a surgical procedure performed by a veterinarian that prevents cats from becoming pregnant.

Spaying can be done when a kitten is as young as eight weeks old. It is advised to perform the operation before six months of age to reduce the risk of pregnancy. The surgery involves the removal of the ovaries and uterus through an incision below the umbilicus (the belly button). 

Spaying a cat can guard against pregnancy as well as reduce the risk of breast cancer and eliminate all dangers of ovarian and uterine cancer. Cats who have been spayed no longer experience estrus, a time in which they are in heat and often yowl and attract male cats.  While some people may think that spaying is expensive, it is important to point out that the cost of spaying is less than the cost of raising kittens for a year. Also, pet license fees are often reduced for altered pets.

After the procedure, most cats need a little time to recover. It is a good idea to bring the cat indoors and provide her with a quiet location. Running and jumping should be discouraged to aid in the healing process. If the cat tries to lick the incision site, an Elizabethan collar can be used to prevent her from reaching the incision. Bathing should not be done for at least 10 days after the surgery to prevent infection from occurring. The incision site should be checked daily, and if any redness, swelling, or discharge is detected, the veterinarian should be contacted.